However, the tension you report between the wind and conservation communities was created by a tone-deaf Interior Department. Parties representing both wind and conservation had reached a consensus that would better protect wildlife and promote clean energy.

But Interior chose to ignore a win-win and its dismissive posture was on full display in your story, when an official said, essentially, "trust us, we'll do the right thing."

The Interior Department hasn't done right by eagles for years. It's not too late for Interior to take a step back. If they don't, the unfortunate consequence is that our national symbol will pay the price.